Hawks boss Bramald buoyed by team’s effort and commitment

NEW Hawks’ BOSS Matt Bramald was “reasonably happy” with Hunslet’s first performance since he took over the reins.

Hawks were beaten 24-10 at Featherstone Rovers in the Gareth Swift memorial match, three days after Bramald replaced Barry Eaton as coach.

Playing downhill in the first half, Hawks led 10-6 at the break and Bramald reflected: “We started poorly and conceded first, but then we got a bit of a foothold in the game.

“We went toe-to-toe with them and scored two tries, which was pleasing. One was nicely constructed with a bit of passing in there and George Flanagan scored a nice try as well.

“In the second half, playing up the slope, we could not get any field position and we had a fair bit of defending to do, which took its toll, but all in all it was a decent start for me. The players did what I asked them to do.

“Effort and commitment were things we talked about and they did that.

“There’s a few bits and pieces to work on, but overall I was reasonably happy.”

Hawks, who travel to Batley Bulldogs for another trial game on Saturday, have two injury concerns.

Bramald said: “Matt Carbutt was advised to go to hospital for an X-ray on his jaw and Michael Haley came off with a dead leg.